Collection: Upside Down Socks

Hiking, ski and ankle socks crafted from our unique blend of yak wool and merino, offering unmatched warmth, comfort and performance.
Upside down socks

Why we made socks

"I love trail running, hiking and backcountry skiing - that is how I ended up on the Tibetan plateau in 2008 where I spent time with Tibetan nomad herders who I started talking to about their yaks and the wool they mode. I always wanted to make socks that would aid circulation and help reduce blisters that I could ski-tour in, hike in and run in. That's why we have these three new designs."

kora founder, Michael Kleinwort

Technical credentials

Comfort and performance are our top priorities, so you can keep active doing what you love for as long as you want. Feet produce more sweat than any other part of the human body, so moisture management and wicking are essential to keep feet warm in colder temps and during extended activities outdoors like skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, hiking, running, and more.

Wool uniquely retains its insulating properties when wet, and yak wool is a hollow fibre, meaning it traps even more air than merino, amplifying the insulation of fabrics. Additionally, the properties of yak wool help with temperature regulation; the less energy used to stay warm or cool down, the more the wearer can dedicate to movement. Like merino, yak wool is also naturally odour-resistant and offers a softness that's often compared to cashmere.

Turning the traditional sock upside down

Our 'upside down' design takes the traditional sock design and flips it so the sock is built up to give warmth on the top where there are more protruding veins on the foot, while being less bulky underfoot to increase foot feel. There is strategically placed cushioning above the achilles zone for exceptional protection and comfort, and a PaladinTM protection pad to reduce compression on the bridge of the foot.

For ultimate performance and comfort, we have developed left and right construction for an anatomical fit, elastic support system throughout for enhanced support and to lock the sock in place, double cuff for stretch and comfort, ankle protection pads, and seamless toe closure for comfort.

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Our commitment

Like all kora products, the new range of socks backs kora's mission of supporting the livelihoods of Nomadic yak herders on the Tibetan plateau. The yak wool is sourced and collected by the Kegawa Herders' Cooperative, a collective of more than 90 families in the Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. By sourcing yak wool directly from Himalayan plateau nomads, kora not only ensures the exceptional quality of its fabrics but also contributes directly to supporting the way of life of its Tibetan nomad partners.

Upside Down Yak Wool
Ankle Socks

  • High stretch cuff for minimal compression
  • Elastic support system throughout for support and to help prevent friction
  • Comfort zones cushioning strategically placed throughout for ultimate protection
  • Reinforced heel and two zones for extra durability
  • Unique PaladinTM double density cushion padding for added protection
  • Dorsalis Pedis pulse point
  • Mesh panelling for ventilation and moist management
  • Smooth link toe seam for added comfort

Upside Down Yak Wool
Hiking Socks

  • 1x1 elasticated knit cuff
  • Elastic support system throughout for support and to help prevent friction
  • Comfort zones cushioning strategically placed throughout for ultimate protection
  • Reinforced heel and two zones for extra durability
  • Unique Paladin double density cushion padding for added protection
  • Dorsalis Pedis pulse point
  • Mesh panelling for ventilation and moist management
  • Smooth link toe seam for added comfort

Upside Down Yak Wool
Ski Socks

  • 1x1 elasticated knit cuff
  • Elastic support system throughout for support and to help prevent friction
  • Comfort zones cushioning strategically placed throughout for ultimate protection with a special elasticated design structure to hold these in place
  • Extra ankle alignment protection pads
  • Dorsalis Pedis pulse point
  • Mesh panelling for ventilation and moist management
  • Smooth link toe seam for added comfort